The Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded PhD or MS Graduate Assistantship in Fisheries, open to international applicants from all countries beginning studies in Fall 2026. Conducted under the supervision of Dr. Michael Weber, the research role focuses on invasive carp and native fish behavioural ecology along the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Selected candidates receive a $29,000 annual stipend, health insurance, and a full tuition waiver each semester. No IELTS is required, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, with a deadline of 10 July 2026.
Program Highlights
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Opportunity Type | Fully Funded PhD/MS Graduate Assistantship |
| Organising Body | Iowa State University, United States |
| Mode | On-Campus (Offline, with extensive fieldwork) |
| Duration | Duration of enrolled MS or PhD programme |
| Location | Iowa State University, USA (Missouri & Mississippi River fieldwork) |
| Last Date to Apply | 10 July 2026 |
About the Program
Iowa State University offers this Graduate Assistantship through its Fisheries programme under the direct supervision of Dr. Michael Weber, focusing on a research initiative evaluating the behavioural ecology and population dynamics of invasive carp alongside native species such as sturgeon and Blue Suckers. The project relies on extensive acoustic telemetry arrays deployed across the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and their associated tributaries, positioning the selected scholar within a substantial, multi-agency aquatic ecology research effort.
Furthermore, the assistantship provides hands-on collaboration with a wide range of state and federal agency partners, alongside peer graduate students, exposing the scholar to real-world field data collection, technician supervision, data analysis, and annual reporting responsibilities. Consequently, the position offers practical research leadership experience well beyond typical coursework, with thesis topics partly shaped by the student’s own academic interests within the broader project scope.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualification
- MS applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in fisheries or a closely related field.
- PhD applicants must hold a Master of Science (MS) degree in fisheries or a closely related field.
- All applicants must have prior fisheries fieldwork experience relevant to the research focus of the assistantship.
- Applicants must demonstrate strong academic credentials alongside critical thinking, analytical, and written and oral communication skills.
Experience & Other Conditions
- Applicants must be highly motivated and demonstrate a strong, consistent work ethic.
- Applicants must be physically capable and willing to work long hours in demanding outdoor field conditions, including extended periods on rivers and tributaries.
- No IELTS or equivalent English language test score is required for this position.
Stipend, Salary & Benefits
The Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship 2026 provides a combined teaching and research assistantship covering all primary academic and living costs.
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| Annual Stipend | $29,000 USD per year |
| Health Insurance | Fully covered |
| Tuition Waiver | Provided for each semester of enrolment |
| Assistantship Type | Combined teaching and research assistantship |
Selection Process
- Online application submission through the official Iowa State University programme webpage
- Review of academic credentials, fieldwork experience, and research fit with the project’s focus
- Assessment of communication skills, analytical ability, and physical readiness for demanding fieldwork
- Rolling review of applications beginning immediately and continuing until the position is filled
- Final selection and confirmation by Dr. Michael Weber’s research team
How to Apply
- Visit the official Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship programme webpage to review the full position description.
- Confirm your eligibility against the academic and fieldwork experience requirements for either the MS or PhD track.
- Complete the application form thoroughly, ensuring all academic and professional details are accurately presented.
- Upload all required supporting documents as specified on the official application portal.
- Submit your application promptly, as review begins immediately and continues on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
- Ensure your application reaches the university before the final deadline of 10 July 2026.
Important Dates & Links
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 10 July 2026 |
| Review Process | Rolling — begins immediately, continues until position is filled |
| Programme Start | Fall 2026 |
Official Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship 2026?
International applicants from all countries holding a BS (for MS applicants) or MS (for PhD applicants) in fisheries or a related field, with relevant fisheries fieldwork experience, are eligible.
What does the Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship 2026 cover financially?
The scholarship covers a $29,000 annual stipend, full health insurance, and a tuition waiver for each semester of enrolment, delivered through a combined teaching and research assistantship.
What research will the selected scholar conduct?
The scholar will research the behavioural ecology and population dynamics of invasive carp and native fish species such as sturgeon and Blue Suckers across the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, using acoustic telemetry arrays under Dr. Michael Weber’s supervision.
Is IELTS required for the Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship 2026?
No. IELTS or any other formal English language proficiency test is not required to apply for this assistantship.
When is the deadline for the Iowa State University Graduate Scholarship 2026?
The official deadline is 10 July 2026; however, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis starting immediately, so early submission significantly improves the chances of selection before the position is filled.
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